An Outdoor trampoline is an excellent way for children to enjoy the fresh air and get some exercise at the same time. Playhouses, climbing frames, and swing sets are some of the most popular outdoor toys purchased by families today. However, trampolines are probably the most favored recreational outdoor toys purchased by consumers across the world.
Trampolines come in every shape, size, and color imaginable. There are several different types of outdoor trampolines used for varied activities. The recreational trampoline is most likely the one known best to the general public. Recreational trampolines can be as small as 34″x34″ square for small children (ages 6 and under), all the way up to 16 feet in diameter for children and adults. Some manufacturers of trampolines for preschoolers contain the trampoline inside a colorful tent or castle, providing a safety enclosure of sorts and sparking the child’s imagination at the same time. Smaller recreational trampolines can be portable, whereas the larger ones are usually assembled and placed in a specific location. This type of trampoline is seen in backyards across the world, on school playgrounds and in gymnasiums.
Professional athletes use competitive trampolines both for strength training and conditioning, but in competition as well. Olympic athletes have used them for the past several years. Gymnasiums use them to help gymnasts become stronger and learn body control. Competitive trampolines are built with more durable components and a very strong fabric. While they are sturdier than recreational trampolines, they are built to be lightweight and portable. The shape and size of this type of trampoline has been standardized, so they are the same size across the world. Since they are used for athletic competitions, competitive trampolines deliver a higher bounce and enable the athlete to perform difficult stunts.
Water trampolines are ideal for lakeside fun. They’re inflatable, portable, float on the water, and can be anchored in the open water. Even though water trampolines are designed specifically for entertainment, they are great for exercise too!
Just as with other outdoor toys, safety rules need to be observed when using all types of trampolines. A few manufacturers build in safety features to their trampolines, or they offer accessories that help to make the trampolines safer to use. One safety feature is a “bulls-eye” stitched into the middle of the canvas. This gives the jumper on an outdoor trampoline an awareness of where he is on the trampoline and can therefore stay closer to the middle. There are manufacturers that offer the trampoline with an enclosure (safety net) that is easily attached for further safety. The enclosures are meant to keep the jumper from falling off of the trampoline if they lose control of their jumps.
The bounce mat must be inspected regularly to check for fraying fabric or breakage. Over time, any trampoline bounce mat will succumb to wear and tear and the outdoor elements. Check with the manufacturer concerning their warranty on the bounce mat. Warranties do vary, so be sure you have something in writing. A good standard for a trampoline warranty is 5 years. Trampoline owners may want to consider investing in a cover for theirĀ outdoor trampolines to extend the life of the mat.